A colorful life is a beautiful life...

I was struck today about how dreary and unending the winter months can feel - especially in the arctic tundra we have out there this week! It's during these winter months that I begin to appreciate the beauty of color in everyday things. Here are the four colorful things that made my day a little bit more beautiful:

1. Tony's grandmother made us this quilt for our wedding...and it is beautiful! This snapshot really doesn't do it justice. It is my favorite thing to curl up under in the morning while I read, or to snuggle with my hubby in the evening. I have never appreciated it more than now, when the only color to be seen outdoors is white.

2. There's nothing better to change your mood in the middle of a stressful work week than wearing a bright pink sweater. I don't know if there's some weird psychological affect of clothing color on a person's attitude and outlook (note to self to research later...), but it seems to work for me!

3. Our guest bathroom shower curtain always brings memories and a smile to my face. When I was younger I would often visit my great grandmother (affectionately called Nana by all) after school. My family moved her to my hometown when she became ill. This was her shower curtain, and she could see it from her bed during the day. She loved bright, springy colors and always thanked my mother for choosing such a beautiful curtain for her small apartment. I always found it cheerful too and wouldn't let my mom get rid of it when Nana passed away. When Tony and I got married, I snatched it and now enjoy it daily!

4. My mother always told me "the best dinner plates are colorful ones." I believe her. Sometimes I have to put in some effort to add color to the dinner plate, but not for this meal. Beef stir fry really is my go-to recipe and we have it at least once a week - I know, original - but it's so good! Cooking with good produce in the middle of winter makes me feel more cookout-y, and who doesn't love a cookout?! (I know that's not a real word, but this is my blog so I can make up words!) Tonight my produce consisted of green, red, and yellow bell peppers, purple onion, zucchini, and yellow squash. I'll get around to posting a recipe one of these days!

What colorful things make your life more beautiful? I'd love to hear from you!